Corney & Barrow 

Bodega Ruca Malen is a boutique winery in Mendoza, Argentina, producing elegant, stylish wines from classic grape varieties. Exclusive to Corney & Barrow in the UK, Ruca Malen was only set up in 1998, the brainchild of Jean-Pierre Thibauld and Jacques-Louis de Montalembert, who shared a dream of owning a winery in Mendoza. Both men share a love of wine and an understanding of the international wine trade, de Montalembert having worked extensively in Burgundy, France, while Thibauld was for years chairman of Bodegas Chandon, Argentina. Ruca Malen’s vineyards are located in the top quality Lujan de Cuyo area of Mendoza. Planted at 800-1,100m above sea level, the vines benefit from the high-altitude UV light that helps concentrate vital grape components, while cool night-time temperatures prolong the ripening process, preserving delicate acidities and enhancing flavour.

Photo: Jean-Pierre Thibauld in the Bodega Ruca Malen cellars